Symptoms of Bad Fuel Tank Selector Valve

The fuel tank selector valves manage the flow of fuel that flows between the main tank and the second tank, meeting the engine’s needs. Hence any problem in the fuel tank selector valve affects fuel transport.

The fuel tank valve is typically situated on the frame rail. It is usually a switch on the dash used to regulate the valve. It sends a signal to the valve, which triggers the valve to close or open when switched on.

In this article, we have a complete guide on symptoms of bad fuel tank selector valve and their solutions. With these solutions, you can run your vehicle like a brand new one.

What is a Fuel Tank Selector Valve?

A selector valve allows the driver to switch between the dual fuel tanks. A majority of vehicles come with two tanks, one primary and a secondary. The fuel pipes could draw fuel from the primary or secondary tank through this selector valve in such systems.

The selector valve is linked to a switch accessible by the passenger seat. The valve lets you select the tank’s fuel that will be used to fuel the engine. The switch transmits a signal to the valve that closes or opens the fuel tank. 

The fuel selector valves usually have six valves. Certain valves are used for fuel transmission, and others are for the return of the fuel. In the case of issues, the valve faces problems in closing and opening.

Symptoms of Bad Fuel Tank Selector Valve

It is crucial to be aware of the signs of a defective selection valve for the fuel tank. Here are the most likely symptoms and suggestions for you to act without delay to avoid any risk of further damage to the fuel tank.

Only One Fuel Tank Operational 

When the selector valve doesn’t work correctly, the switch cannot do its job. It means that one fuel tank continues to function while the other doesn’t.

Inspect the switch to reveal the cause of the issue. There may be broken wiring, or a malfunctioning motor can be the culprit. Look at the dashboard and check if the fuel tank has sufficient fuel. If you notice that the mileage is unacceptable, check the tank on the other side. The presence of adequate fuel in the tank indicates the need for a thorough inspection.

Fuel Tank Not Functioning

The most common symptom with the selector valve is the malfunctioning of the fuel tank. In such a situation, we recommend checking the valve selector switch as well as the wire. Don’t forget to check the small motor too. In some instances, the cause of the problem may also be the valve’s damage. So, make sure to fix the issue immediately.

Fuel Circulation Problem 

Apart from problems with the fuel tank, there may also be issues with fuel circulation problems. A defective selector valve may result in the switch failure and cause rear tank blockage. Because of this, there will be issues in fuel circulation.

Overfilled With Fuel

Sometimes, a malfunctioning valve could cause an overfilled primary tank. When the switch is not shut correctly, it will overflow the main tank. The problem also has symptoms such as leaks in fuel tanks. In this situation, it’s better to replace the valve right away.

Not Responding During Start

Many times the selector valve doesn’t respond when we start the vehicle. It is necessary to change or install a brand new valve to ensure proper operation in such cases.

Repair the Defective Selector Valve

Each component of the fuel system must function in synchrony. It will allow the vehicle to operate effectively. If the selector valve is not working correctly, it could affect the overall fuel distribution and result in significant malfunctions shortly.

If your car engine continually uses an insufficient amount of fuel, it can result in

In general, replacing the damaged fuel selector valve is a matter of $30 to $80. If you do not address these issues, you could find yourself with a problem that will cost you several hundred dollars. So, it is crucial to fix your fuel tank selector valve problems.

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FAQs about Bad Fuel Tank Selector Valve

Is replacing a bad fuel tank selector valve expensive?

The cost of replacing a bad fuel tank selector ranges somewhere between $30 to $80. The cost differs based on the labor price as well as the price of the parts.

How often should you service the fuel tank selector valve?

It is not necessary to check or repair the valve frequently. The only time to address it is when there is a problem. It means that you take note of the warning signs and symptoms described in the article and then act accordingly.
If you don’t have any previous repair experience, it’s better to take your vehicle to the nearest repair shop to have it properly serviced. If you want a DIY, you could browse and find many videos about the replacement of fuel tank separator valves.

What does a fuel selector valve do?

The fuel is piped through lines to a selector valve for fuel control. This selector valve has several purposes. The primary goal is to serve as a shut-off valve for fuel. It is essential to provide an option to block fuel from entering the engine in the event of an engine fire.

What should be looked for when inspecting an engine-driven fuel pump?

The fuel pump driven by an engine will provide a constant flow of gasoline at a suitable pressure throughout the engine’s operation. You should check for leaks of fuel and the security in mounting.  

Final Words

We hope that these tips problems with the fuel tank selector valve will undoubtedly aid you in making the right decision. Once you have identified the issue and the solution in our guide, be sure that you follow the instructions precisely. If you notice any of these symptoms, you must respond immediately. Make sure you search for the right one based on your vehicle’s particular requirements.